Admission of Children to Holy Communion

From the 13th century it became customary to require Confirmation prior to admitting children to Communion. This mediaeval practice then passed into the Book of Common Prayer.

Admission of Children to Holy Communion provides us with the opportunity of Baptism and Holy Communion, while at the same time continuing adult affirmation of faith in Confirmation.

There is no specific age at which children may be admitted to Holy Communion. Children may be admitted to Holy Communion provided that the priest has ensured that an adequate course of instruction has been undertaken and the child shows understanding of the meaning of Holy Communion.

A child is admitted to Holy Communion on the understanding that Confirmation will follow at the appropriate time. A child who is not a regular worshipper will not be admitted to Holy Communion.